Environmental Studies Program
Date of this Version
Spring 5-2013
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate current practices regarding known Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) populations in Lincoln, Nebraska and to determine the most effective management techniques in controlling garlic mustard invasions. A.petiolata is a shade tolerant, cool season growth plant invasive to North America. It is an allelopathic biennial whose established first year rosettes overwinter giving garlic mustard a head start on native annuals allowing it to outcompete indigenous species in the understory of woodland areas. Information regarding the histories and extent of invasions, management methods, and impacts on ecosystems was gathered from personnel at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, Lancaster County Weed Control, Pioneers Park Nature Center, and Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s Noxious Weed Program. Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue, NEserved as a case study for management efficacy as garlic mustard has demonstrated a prolific ability to spread throughout the area. The most effective method of controlling garlic mustard infestations has been to manually pull and bag the plants, taking care to completely remove the entire root. This treatment should be repeated multiple times throughout the growing season until the mature adults begin to seed to prevent further seed dispersal. Annual monitoring is crucial until the seed bank has been depleted to prevent reinvasion.